INDIANAPOLIS — Twenty-one years ago, a local man had an idea he thought would never take off.
Steve Kerr was working for the Wheeler Mission, which needed funds for their programs.
For those of you who don't know, the mission is more than a homeless shelter in downtown Indianapolis.
Kerr came up with the idea to ask local runners to "move their feet, so others can eat!"
A new Thanksgiving tradition was born!
Each year, thousands of runners and walkers head to Broad Ripple for the Drumstick Dash, and others volunteer.
One of them was Christopher Body.
"I see hope. I see a future for many people who don't even know there's one for them yet."
He's in charge of set up. It's a role he never imagined having. "I mean, I was homelesss," Body said.
The 36-year-old struggled with addiction.
"I just kept falling and falling and falling further," Body said. "That's what I knew. That's what I was raised around, and that's how I thought you could have joy - was with a drink or with getting high."
The father of four was in jail when he found out about Wheeler Mission. "I have more joy now just helping others and serving."
Now a servant leader in training, our camera rolling as he talked about what this day means to him.
"And this event is part of how I have an opportunity at life."
Thanks to $1 million feeding, clothing and providing serves to local men like Body.
However, more than that, it's a future.
"All these guys are looking for hope, and Wheeler Mission is proving that through the Drumstick Dash."
It's the top fundraiser each year for the mission.
In 2023, 15,155 runners registered, surpassing the 15K goal.
More than $1 million was raised, also exceeding this year’s goal!
You can click here for more information on the Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash.